In a bold move that has drawn significant criticism, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made sweeping changes to its Test squad and coaching staff just before the third Test against England, scheduled to begin on September 9 at Edgbaston. Former captain Shahid Afridi has publicly condemned this decision, labeling it the "most shocking decision ever" made by a selection committee.
The PCB's decision comes on the heels of disappointing performances in the first two Tests of the series, where Pakistan suffered heavy defeats. The team lost the first Test by an innings and 103 runs, followed by a 194-run defeat in the second Test at Lord's. In response to these results, the PCB has dropped seven players, introducing seven new faces, including five uncapped players, into the squad.
Afridi has taken to social media to express his bewilderment over the timing and rationale behind such a drastic overhaul. He questioned the logic of including players primarily known for their T20 skills in a Test match setting, particularly in challenging conditions like those in England. "Not sure what is the logic or reasoning behind this decision! Even the replacements make no sense - T20 players have been included for a Test match in England?" he wrote, emphasizing his disbelief at the selectors' choices.
Among the players released from the squad are notable names such as Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, and Khurram Shahzad, all of whom had participated in the series. Meanwhile, newcomers like Saim Ayub and Abdullah Fazal, along with Arafat Minhas, Mohammad Imran Jnr, Saad Baig, Mohammad Imran Randhawa, and Razaullah, have been brought in to replace them.
The upheaval has not only affected the players but has also led to instability within the PCB's selection committee. Former captain Misbah-ul-Haq has reportedly resigned from his position amid these changes. Sources indicate that Misbah was not consulted regarding the squad alterations, which has contributed to his decision to step down. He is also expected to resign from his role as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.
Despite the turmoil surrounding the team, Pakistan is set to meet King Charles at Clarence House this week, a visit that was planned before the series commenced. On the field, however, the team faces the daunting challenge of avoiding a clean sweep against England, as they prepare for the final Test at Edgbaston, where they will aim to salvage some pride after a difficult series.
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